The Secrets of Tattooing- Part Three

Learning to use your equipment correctly is one of the final secrets of tattooing you must focus on in order to become a good tattoo artist. While observing an experienced tattoo artist at work is a great way to pick up on some tips and see how to use the tools correctly, nothing can really take the place of practice. The good news; however, is that there are several tips which can help you along the way in learning to use your equipment properly.

While there are several pieces of equipment you will need to use in tattooing, the tattoo machine itself is one of the most important. If you do not learn how to use this piece of equipment correctly right from the start it will be difficult to get anything else right. First, you always want to make sure you have the proper angle. If you get too much of an angle or if you do not get enough of an angle the results will be dismal.

It is also important to make sure you have the proper depth. Once again, not enough or too little can be devastating to the design. In reality, if you go too deep you could actually cause injury. If you’ve ever had an experience with a tattoo that simply wouldn’t stay and began to fade after a short time the problem could probably be attributed to the depth being too shallow. So, as you can see, attaining the proper depth is absolutely essential.

You will also need to make sure that you follow the proper set up procedures. Far too often, there is the temptation to rush through and not do this. Rushing through the set up process can result in numerous problems. While it may seem to take up a lot of time, when you first obtain your tattoo machine it is important to actually spend some time practicing setting it up and taking it down. Once you master the technique, you will be glad you spent the time on it. It will help you to avoid a lot of hassle and problems along the way.

Learning to hold the machine correctly as well as how to hold your palm during the process is another of the important secrets of tattooing. It is imperative that you learn how to effectively control and balance the machine. Poor shading and squiggly lines are often the result of not controlling the machine. Avoid this by learning how to use your palm effectively and hold the machine properly.

Finally, recognize that nothing takes the place of practice. Not the best equipment in the world and not even talent and skill. Never attempt to tattoo someone else until you have first put in plenty of practice time. Take the time to build up your stamina and dexterity, which does not happen overnight, as well as work on practice skins. Then, when you’re ready, you will be able to put all of the secrets of tattooing you have learned to use and really get started.